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The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Celebrates Automotive History

Paul Meyer

MAY 14, 2013

Set along the shores of Italy’s picturesque Lake Como, the annual Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este (this year from May 24 through 26) serves as a beauty contest for the world’s rarest and most stylish automobiles. This year’s event includes a high-end car sale by RM Auctions, a retrospective of 90 years of BMW motorcycles, and an “American Dream” presentation in celebration of Corvette’s 60th anniversary.

The BMW motorcycle tribute will feature more than 30 historic and unique motorcycles, including milestones that have established BMW Motorrad as an industry leader, such as the BMW R 32 (the very first motorcycle model in BMW’s history); the Supercharged 255; the prototype R10 (the only two-stroke machine ever built by BMW); and the winning bike from the Paris–Dakar Rally in 1985.

Those looking to purchase a piece of history should seek out one of the exclusive automobiles crossing the block at RM Auctions on May 25. Discerning Ferrari collectors will want to keep their eye on the 1962 Ferrari 400 Superamerica SWB Coupe, while enthusiasts of prewar classics will likely place their bids on a 1930 Bugatti Type 46 Superprofile Coupe. These are just two examples of the high-caliber automobiles that RM Auctions is expected to proffer for the Villa d’Este weekend. Only about 45 will go up for bids, but each promises to showcase the ultimate representation of elegance, sophistication, rarity, and provenance, in keeping with the theme of the esteemed Concorso.

Additionally, the organizers are unveiling a new smartphone app for iOS that covers the full gamut of events and vehicles on display. (concorso.villadeste@bmwgroup.com)